What does a product designer actually do?

Intro
People often ask: “What does a product designer really do?” The answer: much more than drawing pretty objects. At HeijltjesAkkaya, product design means shaping ideas into smart, purposeful, and manufacturable products.

It starts with asking better questions
Product designers don't just respond to a brief. We challenge assumptions, ask the right questions, and translate abstract goals into tangible design opportunities.

Key roles of a product designer

• Understanding user needs and behaviors

• Exploring form, function, and materials

• Aligning design with technical feasibility and sustainability

• Iterating through sketching, 3D modeling, and prototyping

• Working alongside engineers, clients, and fabricators

Designing with intent
Our design approach balances aesthetics, usability, and impact. We work closely with clients to ensure every detail supports the product’s purpose — and its users.

Design as development
At HeijltjesAkkaya, design and development are inseparable. From the earliest idea to the first prototype, our designers shape every phase.